Student Life in Angers
Angers Overview
Angers, the historical capital of Anjou, is a lovely and youthful city located in the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its rich mediaeval history, including the impressive Château d'Angers, and its commitment to nature with the Terra Botanica park, it offers a high quality of life. The city has a relaxed atmosphere and consistently ranks among the best places to live in France.
With a big student population comprising nearly 20% of its residents, Angers is a true university town. Students can enjoy a lively social scene, green spaces, and a pedestrian-friendly city centre. If you are looking for student accommodation in Angers, you will find a range of options from private residences to shared apartments. Casita can help you find the perfect place to stay, ensuring a smooth transition into student life in this charming French city.
Top Angers Universities
University of Angers (Université d'Angers)
The University of Angers is a multidisciplinary place known for its high success rates and student support. It ranks #701-850 in the QS World University Rankings and in the top 30-40 in France. The university is home to approximately 26,000 students, of whom 14% are international. It is known for its research in health, materials science, and plant science.
ESSCA School of Management
ESSCA is a prestigious Grande École with a strong international focus. It is ranked #141-150 in the QS Business Master’s Rankings 2026: Management and 20th in France. The school has a smaller, more exclusive student body of approximately 7,000 students across its campuses. ESSCA is famous for business, finance, and marketing education, and it holds the "Triple Crown" accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS).
Catholic University of the West
The Catholic University of the West (UCO) is one of France’s oldest private higher-education institutions, with roots tracing back several centuries and a modern refounding in 1875. Known for its strong emphasis on teaching, UCO appears in international rankings such as EduRank, where it is placed around #3172 globally and #112 within France. Today, the university enrols approximately 12,000 students across its campuses. UCO also hosts a diverse international community, welcoming over a thousand international and exchange students each year through its various programmes, including the well-known CIDEF French-language centre.
Student Accommodation in Angers
Student accommodation in Angers is diverse and generally more affordable than in larger French cities like Paris or Lyon. Options range from modern private student residences (PBSAs) with gyms and study rooms to independent studios and shared flats in the city centre. Prices typically start from around €400 to €500 per month, depending on the location and amenities.
Best Accommodation in Angers
Affordable Accommodation in Angers
Best Areas for Students in Angers
Angers is a compact city with several distinct neighbourhoods that cater to different student lifestyles. Here are the top areas to consider:
Saint-Serge
Located just north of the city centre, Saint-Serge is a modern district. It is located near the University of Angers' Saint-Serge campus and the Maine River. The area boasts the Pathé Angers cinema and is a short walk from the Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden. It is ideal for students attending the nearby Law, Economics, and Management faculties.
Belle-Beille
Belle-Beille is a major student spot west of the city centre. It is home to the University of Angers' Belle-Beille campus and several engineering schools. The area is green and spacious, featuring the Étang Saint-Nicolas park for outdoor activities and the Maison de l'Environnement. It is a quieter, academically focused neighbourhood with excellent bus and tram connections to the city centre.
Centre-Ville / The Doutre
The city centre and the historic Doutre district across the river offer the quintessential Angers experience. This area is known for its lively nightlife, cobbled streets, and heritage sites. Top attractions include the Musée Jean-Lurçat and the historic Cathedral Saint-Maurice. It is perfect for students who want to be in the heart of the action, with easy access to various Grandes Écoles.
Cost of Living in Angers
The cost of living in Angers is moderate compared to other major French student cities. According to Numbeo, these are the costs the average student would need to pay.
Housing
Item | Monthly Cost (€) |
1 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre | 620.00 € |
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of City Centre | 480.00 € |
Groceries
Item | Monthly Cost (€) |
Fresh White 500 g Loaf of Bread | 1.83 € |
1 kg Tomatoes | 2.75 € |
1 kg Onions | 2.25 € |
1 L Milk | 1.11 € |
1 kg White Rice | 2.25 € |
12 Eggs | 4.62 € |
1 kg Local Cheese | 16.50 € |
1 kg Chicken Fillets | 14.34 € |
1 kg Oranges | 2.73 € |
1 kg Apple | 2.23 € |
Utilities
Item | Monthly Cost |
Basic Utilities for 85 m² Apartment | 135.83 € |
Mobile Phone Plan | 27.19 € |
Transportation
Item | Cost |
One-Way Ticket | 2.00 € |
Annual Student Travel Pass (Irigo) | 264 € |
Transport & Connectivity for Students in Angers
Angers has an efficient and eco-friendly public transport network operated by Irigo, making it easy for students to navigate the city.
Tramway:
The Angers Tramway consists of three operational tram routes (A, B, and C) that connect major university campuses, such as Belle-Beille and Saint-Serge, with the city centre and the train station. It is modern, frequent, and runs late into the evening, offering a reliable way to commute.
Bus:
The Irigo bus network is extensive, covering areas not reached by the tram, including suburban districts. Buses are synchronised with tram schedules, allowing students to use the extensive network to travel anywhere they want and explore the city.
Train:
Angers Saint-Laud is a central station, connecting the city to Paris in just 1.5 hours and to Nantes in 40 minutes. This makes weekend trips or international travel very convenient for students. The station is centrally located and connected to the tram network.
Walking:
Angers is a very walkable and bike-friendly city. The compact city centre enables students to walk easily between shops, cafes, and historical sites, promoting a healthy, cost-effective lifestyle.
Top Student Attractions in Angers
Angers offers a mix of historical heritage and modern culture, providing plenty of spots for students to explore.
Château d'Angers: This massive mediaeval fortress is the city's most iconic landmark, featuring 17 towers and housing the famous Apocalypse Tapestry. It is a must-visit for history students and offers stunning views of the Maine River.
Terra Botanica: As the first theme park in Europe dedicated to plant life, Terra Botanica offers a unique escape with extraordinary gardens and attractions. It serves as a fun and educational day out, especially for those studying plant sciences.
Musée des Beaux-Arts: Located in a historic mansion, the Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers displays a vast collection of artworks from the 14th century to today. It is a quiet, inspiring place for art students to study and appreciate classic masterpieces.
Galerie David d'Angers: Housed in the stunning glazed-roofed Abbey of All Saints, this gallery showcases the sculptures of Pierre-Jean David. The natural light flooding the abbey makes it a visually spectacular venue for culture lovers.
Musée Jean-Lurçat: Situated in the former Hôpital Saint-Jean, this museum houses the "Chant du Monde" (Song of the World) tapestry, a modern echo of the Apocalypse Tapestry. It is a fascinating spot for students interested in contemporary art and textile history.
Jardin des Plantes: This romantic botanical garden in the city centre creates a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reading or revising notes. It features century-old trees, waterfalls, and animals, offering a relaxing break from university life.
